Gold rushes home to South Africa

London Irish have confirmed that head coach Gary Gold has been released from his contract to join South African side Western Province.

Gold, who still had a year left to run on his contract at Irish, has agreed to join up with former Springbok coach Nick Mallett at the Cape Town-based outfit.

Gold, who joined London Irish in 2001, will take over as WP’s forwards coach from next month.

Commenting on his decision to leave the Zurich Premiership outfit in order to return to his homeland, Gold admitted WP’s offer had been too good to turn down.

“I am sorry to be leaving London Irish,” he said.

“This great club gave me the opportunity to build my coaching career at senior level and I will always be grateful for that.

“The position with Western Province is a unique chance to move to another stage and to return home.

“London Irish and the people associated with it, from the directors who supported me through some difficult times, to management colleagues, the players and especially the supporters, you all will always have a special place in the hearts of my family.”

London Irish’s director of rugby Brian Smith admitted the decision to release Gold from the last year of his contract had been a tough one.

“Gary Gold has made a significant contribution to this club over the past four seasons so when he approached us about the exceptional offer he has received from Western Province we had to consider and grant his request, albeit reluctantly,” said Smith.

“We wish him much success working with Nick Mallett and look forward to developing links with him in his new role.”